Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Saudarkrokur, Iceland, where the unique ET climate can lead to unexpected sun exposure. With UV levels ranging throughout the day, awareness is key to preventing sunburn and protecting your skin health. During peak hours, particularly from 12 PM to 3 PM when the index reaches levels of 5, the risk of skin damage increases significantly. By keeping an eye on the UV Index, you can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Saudarkrokur while minimizing the risks of UV exposure.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins its ascent, starting at a mild 1 at 07:00. By 08:00, it climbs to a 2, signaling the need for a bit of caution. The UV intensity peaks at 5 from 12:00 to 15:00, a crucial time when protective measures are essential for outdoor activities. After this midday high, the index gradually declines, reaching 4 by 16:00 and dropping back to 2 by 19:00. This hourly progression highlights the importance of being sun-smart, especially during those peak hours when the UV rays are at their strongest. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 11:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 12:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 13:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 14:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 15:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 17:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 18:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, the UV Index experiences notable changes, reflecting the shifting intensity of sunlight. From January to February, the UV Index remains low at 1, with a relatively safe burn time of 45 minutes. As spring approaches in March, there is a slight increase to 2, still categorized as low. However, April and May see a rise to 4 and 5 respectively, indicating a moderate exposure risk, with burn times decreasing to 30 minutes. The peak high-risk months occur from June to July, where the UV Index reaches 6, necessitating stricter sun protection due to a burn time of only 25 minutes. As the summer wanes, August sees a drop to 4, and by September, the index is at 3. Moving into the cooler months, October returns to low levels at 2, and by November and December, it drops back to 1. Therefore, it is crucial for visitors and residents to be particularly cautious and to protect their skin during the high UV months of June and July. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting exposure during peak sunlight hours are strongly advised during these times, while maintaining a relaxed approach during the lower UV months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reykjavik UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Gardabaer UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Hafnarfjoerdur UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Kopavogur UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Saudarkrokur | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Akureyri UVI | 1 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 |